In past years, gnomes have been known to appear on the Polly Hill Arboretum grounds, and it has become a popular adventure for families to try to find these hidden gnomes. This year, the Gnome Hunt is so popular, it will be available through April, and is a fun outdoor experience to add to our We Love MV series — WE LOVE MV: Spring Fun on Martha’s Vineyard – Polly Hill Arboretum Gnome Hunt
Polly Hill is a wonderful place to visit anytime of the year, but especially in the Spring. With its diverse collection of plants and trees, there are already things in bloom, and more will continue to bloom with each passing week. Who doesn’t like to see the first signs of Spring!
WE LOVE MV: Spring Fun On Martha’s Vineyard – Polly Hill Arboretum Gnome Hunt How It Works
Not only is it fun to take in the natural beauty of the grounds, but add in the Gnome Hunt and you can have an engaging interactive experience. At the visitor center at the entrance (currently closed), you can get your Gnome Hunt map. “Follow the clues written by an expert gnome spotter.” Don’t forget to grab a winter tree ID guide too for the walk.
There are 10 Gnomes hiding throughout Polly Hill. The map helps guide you on your search and provides helpful clues on the hiding ways of Gnomes. According to the map, the Gnomes are very helpful with maintaining the grounds of the arboretum.
WE LOVE MV: Spring Fun On Martha’s Vineyard – Polly Hill Arboretum Gnome Hunt Where To Look
The Gnomes are playful and like to hide, use the map as your guide. They may be near a wall, inside a tree or high above to all to see. Look for a pop of red from the top of their pointy hat. They are clever and cute and finding them is perfect for all ages to boot.
Most are close to the trail, but require a keen eye. Searching for all 10 Gnomes was fun for not only my 8 & 10 year olds (she didn’t want to admit it was fun), but also for me. It was nice to see both kids work together to find all the Gnomes, it was a feel-good outdoor experience.
WE LOVE MV: Spring Fun On Martha’s Vineyard – Polly Hill Arboretum Gnome Hunt + So Much More
An added bonus was walking the grounds so early in the season. Of course we checked out our favorite Monkey Puzzle trees, but also loved seeing the Witch Hazel trees in bloom (a Winter blooming tree), along with other plants, including what I would call Snowdrops flowering, nestled in the old leaves. You could feel Spring in the air. My kids even want to go back again in a couple of weeks to see what else is in bloom.
We hope that the Gnome Hunt adds to your Spring fun on Martha’s Vineyard. It is a way to enjoy the beauty of nature with an added bonus. I should mention that I saw adults doing the Gnome Hunt too — it really is for all ages. Thanks Polly Hill for offering a special outside adventure.
“Arboretum admission is $5; Free for children under 9, and free for PHA members. The grounds are open daily sunrise – sunset. All buildings including restrooms are currently closed to the public. Please wear a mask and maintain a six foot distance from other visitors. Enjoy nature while staying safe”!
We Love MV is our ongoing series capturing the spirit of Martha’s Vineyard year-round. We hope you are staying safe during these times. Please don’t forget to “Like” Point B Realty on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter, Linked In, Pinterest, Youtube and Instagram.
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